Food Safety: Americans’ Confidence Plummets as System Shows Cracks

In Brief
A recent Gallup survey reveals a notable drop in Americans' confidence in the government's ability to ensure food safety, with an 11% decrease since 2019. This decline occurs amid food safety crises, such as the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak, which resulted in 10 deaths. Conducted in July, at the peak of listeria alerts, the survey shows particularly high distrust among Republicans (-27%), while Democrats' confidence has increased by 9%. Political division and the impact of social media on perceptions of science and institutions—amplified by the pandemic—play a key role. 

Key Takeaways
• 11% decrease in confidence from 2019 to 2024 among the general population. 
• 27% drop among Republicans versus a 9% rise among Democrats. 
• Boar’s Head: a listeria outbreak causing 10 deaths and 59 hospitalizations. 

Analysis and Insights
Inadequate Regulatory System: The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), intended to modernize food safety, lacks resources and effective implementation, leaving the system prone to failures. This lack of resilience in public agencies undermines the foundation of food safety—a critical point for international operators relying on imports and exports. 
Political Polarization and Risk Perception: Food safety has become an ideological issue in the United States, with risk perception divided along partisan lines. This polarization hinders regulatory reforms and slows the adoption of a unified approach to public health, potentially impacting exports of American products perceived as less safe abroad. 
Trust Crisis and Business Model Impacts: As consumer trust in the F&B sector erodes, brands are being pushed to adopt higher standards and rethink their model, with an emphasis on transparency and traceability. For global chains, the U.S. situation could serve as a case study on how to avoid eroding consumer trust. 
Growth in Private Control Initiatives: With regulators falling short, the private sector could see increased demand for third-party certifications (e.g., Global Food Safety Initiative), enhancing the value of independent, innovative brands that align with expectations for safety and transparency

Alice P